Monday, October 18, 2010

Flamingo chick learning flamingo ways

Posted by: Rebecca Whitham, Communications

What sound does a flamingo chick make? How well can it stand on one leg? See for yourself in our latest video:

The chick’s vocalizations are actually quite important for survival. Just 5-12 days after hatching, flamingo chicks within a colony leave their nests and form a crèche of similar-aged chicks watched over by a few adults. For subsequent feedings, parents locate their offspring in the crèche through voice recognition.

How do the parents recognize their chick’s voice? Hours before hatching, flamingo chicks begin vocalizing within the egg. This establishes a bond with their parents so they can locate each other even within a flock of thousands!